Scientists have discovered 100 genes that are linked to high blood pressure, raising hopes that one day they will be able to screen those at risk in childhood

It could also lead to the development of more effective treatments.

High blood pressure affects a third of adults and is the biggest single trigger of heart disease and stroke.

It is known as the silent killer, because the symptoms often go unnoticed until it is too late.

Seven million Brits currently take drugs to lower their blood pressure.

But millions more are unaware of their risk.

The joint study between Imperial College London and Queen Mary University London looked at the DNA of 420,000 Brits.

The research, published in Nature genetics, found 107 new gene regions associated with high blood pressure.

Medics could soon identify those at risk by using gene testing.

Our new findings may help doctors to identify earlier those who are most at risk of high blood pressure in mid-life and intervene to prevent that occurring

Professor Paul Elliott Imperial College London

Earlier use of drugs and lifestyle change, such as healthier diet, cutting booze and cigarettes and more exercise, could save lives.

Researcher Professor Paul Elliott, from Imperial’s School of Public Health, said: “Blood pressure in the general UK population is too high, and we encourage everyone to maintain healthy lifestyles by eating properly and exercising enough.

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And Professor Mark Caulfield, from QMUL, said: “These exciting genetic regions could provide the basis for new innovative preventative therapies and lifestyle changes for this major cause of heart disease and stroke.”

Nearly 200 Brits a day die of a heart attack.

Professor Metin Avkiran, Associate Medical Director from the British Heart Foundation, said: “High blood pressure is one of the most common and important risk factors for heart attacks and stroke.

“We know it is partly inherited and this study provides further insights into the genes that raise blood pressure.

“This new information brings new opportunities to develop better drugs to treat high blood pressure and also to more accurately identify individuals at an earlier age who may be at increased risk from high blood pressure.”

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